5 Common Causes of a Leaking Roof

A leaking roof is definitely a source of frustration for homeowners. It can also bring up a lot of questions. “Is this leak really coming from the roof?” “Where in the roof?” The most common question is “what is causing it?” Roof leaks can be caused by a variety of issues, and that is why it is important to hire professional roofers to diagnose the problem for you. However, today, our roofers are sharing a bit of their wisdom and will be discussing five common causes of a leaking roof.

Roof Repair

If the leak is caught early enough, the damaged section can usually be fixed with some roof repair (as opposed to replacement). This is why we recommend giving RoofPRO a call at the first sign of a leak. The earlier we can diagnose a problem, the earlier we can fix it. If the leak is addressed before it has had enough time to cause damage, that is perfect. So what’s causing those roof leaks? Let’s explore:

#1 - Broken Shingles

This is one of the easiest causes to see with the naked eye, even if you aren’t a professional roofer. Broken shingles are usually caused by weather - high wind and heavy rains, specifically. A cracked shingle exposes the wood below, which gives water access to your home. Since none of us control the weather, this can be difficult to prevent. This is why we recommend that you check out your shingles after a heavy storm system rolls through. We do not suggest that you get on top of your roof, however - save that for the professionals. If you can’t see every part of your roof and would like it checked, we would be happy to schedule an inspection.

#2 - Cracked Venting

You may have noticed the little pipes sticking out from the top of your roof; these are your roof vents. They are used to remove excess moisture from your house. Over time, however, the flashing around the vent can crack or decay. This loosens the seal and can cause issues with the efficiency of the vent. Fortunately, this is a relatively simple fix that requires reattaching the vent to the roof.

#3 - Ice Dams

Ice dams form when your roof has a heavy amount of snow that begins to melt during the day, but freezes overnight. A dam is formed that prevents water from properly draining. The weight of the ice, along with the inability to drain out to the gutters, can cause leaks inside your home. If your ice dam causes a leak, it will need to be fixed. You can work to prevent ice dams, however, by investing in a snow rake to keep your roof relatively clear in winter.

#4 - Cracked Flashing

Flashing are thin pieces of metal installed underneath your shingles to serve as a water barrier. Flashing are often sealed together with tar that can break down over time. If this is caught early enough, the old flashing can be removed and replaced without causing too much of an issue. Cracked flashing can allow a lot of water to get in, however, so it should be addressed as soon as possible.

#5 - Improperly Sealed Valleys

A valley is an area where two sections of your roof come together. If they are not properly sealed, or if the seal has broken down, rainwater can get inside as it runs down your roof. This would look like wet spots on your shingles. This can be a complex fix, which is why we definitely recommend the professionals at RoofPRO. We would likely install a new leak barrier.

Trust Your Roof Repair Company

RoofPRO is here for you. We want you to feel comfortable about your home at all times, and leaks prevent that from happening. If you are interested in hiring RoofPRO for your leaking roof, contact the best roof repair company by filling out our online form or giving us a call at 410-428-6806.